Russia is accused of targeting Central Asian migrants, either to beef up its ranks in the war in Ukraine or to work in Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine. Many workers who used to live in Russia say they have had to return home. Also, North Korea says it has successfully launched its first-ever reconnaissance satellite into orbit. The claim is drawing condemnation but also scepticism from its neighbours. Finally, in a special report, we see how the Philippines is struggling to tackle its massive plastic pollution problem.

This post was originally published on Access Asia.